Former Getafe and Sevilla manager Quique Sanchez Flores has expressed significant concerns regarding Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr.'s recent actions, asserting that they contradict the long-standing values of the club. His remarks, widely reported, suggest a perceived disconnect between the player's conduct and the expectations placed upon a Real Madrid star. Flores' critique extends to questioning Vinicius' commitment and influence within the team, particularly in light of events surrounding a pivotal El Clasico fixture and the departure of then-manager Xabi Alonso.
During a recent interview on El Partidazo de COPE, as detailed by Mundo Deportivo, Sanchez Flores did not shy away from a direct assessment of Vinicius Jr. He emphasized that the Brazilian's performance and demeanor over the past two seasons have, in his view, deviated from the core principles upheld by Real Madrid. Flores suggested that Vinicius is not reaching his full potential, implying that his off-field conduct may be hindering his development as a player and his representation of the club.
The former coach acknowledged a growing sentiment of dissatisfaction among Real Madrid supporters. He articulated that the fanbase's frustration with Vinicius Jr. is entirely understandable given the circumstances. This indicates a public perception issue that, according to Sanchez Flores, the player needs to address to regain the full confidence of the club's faithful.
Sanchez Flores also delved into a contentious moment: Vinicius Jr.'s substitution during an El Clasico match at the Santiago Bernabeu. This incident, he explained, became emblematic of a strained relationship between the player and the then-manager, Xabi Alonso. Flores believed that Alonso should have asserted more authority in the situation, implying a lack of decisive action from the coaching staff at the time. He further noted that the club's decision to support the player over the coach in that specific scenario had significant ramifications.
Discussing Alonso's subsequent departure, Sanchez Flores revealed that he was not surprised by the decision. In fact, he characterized it as a beneficial outcome for Alonso, suggesting that the managerial role had taken a visible toll on him. Flores described such situations as "foretold deaths" – inevitable and often tragic, yet sometimes a necessary release for those involved. He observed Alonso's body language as that of an "exhausted coach," underscoring the immense pressure and stress associated with managing a club of Real Madrid's stature.
Finally, Sanchez Flores analyzed Alvaro Arbeloa's role following Real Madrid's unexpected elimination from the Copa del Rey at the hands of Albacete. While acknowledging Arbeloa's responsibility as the head of the squad and team selection, Flores largely attributed the outcome to the players. He argued that the game was ultimately decided by the players' performance, implying that Arbeloa, despite his leadership position, was a "passenger" in the events that unfolded, suggesting that the team's collective actions were the primary factor in their defeat.